Fluid connection assembly with adapter release

The remotely-operated fluid connection assembly addresses safety and sealing challenges in hydraulic fracturing by using internal pressure to tighten seals and a strengthening sleeve, achieving robust and safe high-pressure connections in larger diameters.

US12252949B2Active Publication Date: 2025-03-18FHE USA LLC
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Patent Information

Application Number
US18/311536
Authority / Receiving Office
US · United States
Patent Type
Patents(United States)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-05-03
Filing Date
2023-05-03
Publication Date
2025-03-18
Estimated Expiration
2039-05-01

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional wellhead connections for pressure control equipment pose safety risks to operators due to high pressures and large diameters, particularly in hydraulic fracturing applications, where existing connections struggle to maintain seals effectively at higher pressures and larger diameters while being remotely operable.

Method used

A remotely-operated fluid connection assembly with a fluid connection adapter and housing assembly, utilizing internal working pressure to tighten seals, featuring a rib and tapered lock engagement surface, and a locking ring that constricts radially to enhance seal integrity, along with a strengthening sleeve for wear protection and a quick test fitting for pressure integrity testing.

Benefits of technology

The solution effectively maintains higher internal pressures in larger diameters, enhances seal robustness, and ensures personnel safety by allowing remote operation, reducing the risk of injury during connection and disconnection processes.

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Abstract

A remotely-operated fluid connection assembly to hold higher internal pressures in larger diameters. The assembly comprises a fluid connection adapter and a fluid connection housing assembly. When the adapter enters the housing assembly: (A) locking elements on the housing assembly constrict about the adapter; and (B) a first seal section on the adapter sealingly contacts a first seal bore on the housing assembly. Progressive engagement of a locking ring tightens the locking elements against the adapter. Internal pressure further tightens the adapter against the locking elements and the first seal section against the first seal bore. The fluid connection adapter also provides a release collar in adapter release embodiments. Extension of the locking ring away from the fluid connection housing during disengagement contacts the release collar and separates the fluid connection adapter from the fluid connection housing assembly.
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